Holidaying back in the day!

Nostalgia could help drive holiday planning this summer, according to VisitScotland.

The national tourism organisation believes with staycations set to be popular this year, an increasing number of visitors will turn to holiday experiences from the past or seek ‘modern twists on old favourites’ when it comes to exploring Scotland.  

New figures suggest almost two thirds of people are keen to revisit places in Scotland that they haven’t been to for years with some doing so in a different way, for example, revisiting a favourite holiday destination from childhood but swapping the family game of rounders on the beach to an adrenaline fuelled kayaking experience.

The findings come as the national tourism organisation launches its new domestic marketing campaign aimed at inspiring people across the UK to take a much-needed break with a day out, a city break or a longer holiday to enjoy all the country has to offer.

Launching today (30 June) the Now is Your Time campaign will cover five themes starting with days out before moving to short stays, city breaks, family gatherings and escape and connect experiences to benefit physical and mental wellbeing.

Using a combination of paid media and digital activity including online videos and social media, the initiative will not only inspire visitors but also educate them on how to enjoy the country responsibly and respectfully.

It is hoped the campaign will encourage Scots to rediscover their own country, supporting local businesses and the recovery of tourism in a safe and responsible way. 

With tourism worth more than £11.5 billion to the Scottish economy, supporting 1 in 12 jobs, the sector has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, subsequent lockdown and travel restrictions.  Domestic tourism remains one of Scotland’s most valuable markets an average of 140.8 million day trips made in Scotland pre COVID-19, generating approximately £5,749 million.

“With so many people staying in the UK this year there has never been a better time to appreciate all the wonderful locations and attractions we have on our doorstep. Whether it’s discovering somewhere new or experiencing an old favourite in a completely new way, now is your time to enjoy the unique experiences that a holiday in Scotland offers. 

“Tourism is a force for good – creating economic and social value in every corner of Scotland and enhancing the well-being of everyone who experiences it.  Tourism makes Scotland richer, economically and socially, and without it Scotland would be a much poorer place.”

Speaking about the potential trend towards nostalgic experiences, <strong>Chris Greenwood, VisitScotland Senior Insight Manager, said: </strong>“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we travel, for some people this might be their first holiday at home for several years. We know that in times of uncertainty that people naturally gravitate towards the familiar. Reminiscing with fondness to past times or a reflective desire to re-live the past can be a magnet to travellers to previously visited destinations. 

“In 2014 we identified the trend Mod-stalgia - embracing the past through the comforts of today - and this is something we expect to come into the fore during the 2021 season. We all have a part to play in helping tourism recover from the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and revisiting places that we have enjoyed in the past is a great way to rediscover and support Scotland’s world-famous tourism offering. The Scottish tourism and events industry need the support of people living in Scotland – we’re asking everyone to take their first post-lockdown holiday in their own country.”

VisitScotland’s new ‘Now Is Your Time’ campaign launches today (30 June) and will run throughout the summer. For more information visit: www.visitscotland.com/holidays-breaks/day-trips/